Christchurch in New Zealand is a city with a temperate climate, but it can also be quite cold in the winter. If you’re looking to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your home, one of the best things you can do is to install double glazed windows.

Double glazed windows have two panes of glass separated by a layer of air or gas. This creates an insulating barrier that helps to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Single glazed windows, on the other hand, have only one pane of glass, which makes them less efficient at insulating your home.

Benefits of Double Glazed Windows

There are many benefits to installing double glazed windows in your Christchurch home, including:

• Reduced energy bills: Double glazed windows can help to reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 50%. This is because they help to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, so you don’t have to use as much energy to heat and cool it.
• Improved comfort: Double glazed windows can help to create a more comfortable home by reducing drafts and noise pollution. They can also help to improve indoor air quality by reducing condensation on the windows.
• Increased value: Double glazed windows can make your home more attractive to potential buyers and increase its value. This is because they are seen as a desirable feature that can make a home more comfortable and energy efficient.

Other Factors to Consider

When deciding whether to install double glazed windows, there are a few other factors to consider, such as:

• Cost: Double glazed windows are more expensive than single glazed windows, but they can save you money on your energy bills in the long run.
• Type of glass: There are different types of glass available for double glazed windows, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some common types of glass include:

1. Float glass: This is the most common type of glass used in double glazed windows. It is affordable and easy to clean, but it is not as energy efficient as some other types of glass.
2. Low-emissivity (low-E) glass: This type of glass has a special coating that helps to reduce heat loss. It is more expensive than float glass, but it can save you more money on your energy bills.
3. Argon gas: Argon gas can be filled between the panes of glass in a double glazed window to improve its insulating properties. Argon gas is more expensive than air, but it can help to save you even more money on your energy bills.

• Window frame: The window frame is also important to consider when choosing double glazed windows. Some common types of window frames include:

1. UPVC: UPVC is a lightweight and durable material that is often used for double glazed windows. It is also relatively affordable.
2. Aluminium: Aluminium is another lightweight and durable material that is often used for double glazed windows. It is more expensive than UPVC, but it is also more durable.
3. Wood: Wood is a traditional material that is often used for double glazed windows. It is more expensive than UPVC or aluminium, but it can add a touch of elegance to your home.

If you’re looking to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your Christchurch home, installing double glazed windows is a great option. Double glazed windows can help to reduce your energy bills, improve your comfort, and increase the value of your home.

Christchurch Homeowners: Additional Considerations

When choosing double glazed windows for your Christchurch home, there are a few additional factors to consider, such as:

• Climate: Christchurch has a temperate climate, but it can also be quite cold in the winter. When choosing double glazed windows, make sure to select a type of glass that is designed to insulate your home in cold weather.
• Wind: Christchurch is also known for its strong winds. When choosing double glazed windows, make sure to select a type of window frame that is strong and durable enough to withstand high winds.
• Sun: Christchurch gets a lot of sun, especially in the summer. When choosing double glazed windows, make sure to select a type of glass that is designed to block out UV rays and prevent your home from overheating.

Government Incentives

The New Zealand government currently doesn’t offer direct grants specifically for installing double glazed windows. However, there might be ways to make them more affordable:

• Deep Retrofits: The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) offers grants for deep retrofits of existing homes. Deep retrofits aim to significantly improve a home’s energy efficiency and may include double glazing in some cases. Check EECA’s website for the latest information on eligible deep retrofit measures: 
• Warmer Kiwi Homes: This government program provides grants for insulation and heating installations in low-income households. While double glazing isn’t directly covered, it could potentially be included as part of a qualifying deep retrofit project.
• Future Policy: The Green party has proposed a policy offering grants for zero-carbon home upgrades, potentially including double glazing. This policy hasn’t been implemented yet, so keep an eye out for updates.

Additional Cost-Saving Options

• Energy Retailers: Some energy retailers might offer discounts on double glazing for their customers.
• Window Manufacturers: Certain window manufacturers may provide rebates on specific double glazing products.

By exploring these options, you might be able to find ways to make double glazing a more feasible investment for your home.

Getting Started

If you’re interested in installing double glazed windows in your Christchurch home, here are a few things you can do to get started:

1. Get quotes from multiple installers. It is important to get quotes from multiple installers before you make a decision. This will help you to compare prices and services, and ensure that you are getting the best possible deal.
2. Ask about the installer’s experience and qualifications. Make sure to choose an installer who has experience installing double glazed windows in Christchurch homes. You should also ask about the installer’s qualifications and insurance.
3. Choose the right type of glass and window frame. There are different types of glass and window frames available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Be sure to choose a type of glass and window frame that is right for your needs and budget.
4. Get a written contract. Once you have chosen an installer, be sure to get a written contract before any work begins. The contract should outline the scope of work, the timeline for completion, and the cost of the installation.

At UDR (Ultimate Design & Renovation) in Christchurch, New Zealand, we can bring a difference of quality, professionalism, and timely completion to our clients. We have a team of experienced and qualified installers who are experts in installing double glazed windows in Christchurch homes. We also offer a wide range of glass and window frame options to choose from, so you can find the perfect solution for your needs and budget.

We understand that installing double glazed windows is a significant investment, so we are committed to providing our clients with the best possible experience. We work with each client to understand their needs and develop a custom solution that meets their budget and requirements. We also offer a satisfaction guarantee on all of our work, so you can be confident that you are getting the best possible value for your money.

If you are interested in learning more about our double glazed window installation services, please contact us today for a free consultation.